Jesus, under relentless scrutiny by religious leaders, walked among the people as love. The gospels, replete with stories of His interactions with humankind, illustrate His love for all. Three examples are Zacchaeus in Luke 19, the woman in Luke 8, and the recluse in Mark 5. Jesus drew them from the shadows, connected with them, and transformed their lives.
Zacchaeus
First, we consider Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector, who was literally up a tree. Being short didn’t keep his desire to see Jesus tethered. Jesus said. “Zacchaeus come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” The people muttered while Jesus had come for the lost. “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus found him in the hidden place, had a meaningful encounter and left him different.
A Woman
Next, we reflect on a woman identified by her illness, hidden in a crowd. Jesus, on his way to keep a young girl from dying, felt power leave Him. “Who touched Me?” He asked.
An unclean woman dared to reach out and touch the rabbi and was healed. She wanted to hide. Jesus, despite everyone denying it and Peter making light of it, called her out. Trembling, she fell at His feet and told Him the entire story. “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” He could have left her in her hiddenness, but the Light of the world knew she needed an encounter with Him for lasting change.
The Recluse
Finally, we read of a man among the tombs, unrestrained by chains, who screamed and cut himself. Then Jesus climbed out of the boat. “Come out of this man you unclean spirit.” As the demons called for mercy, Jesus dealt with the spirits named Legion. Then the man is clothed and in his right mind. He asked to go with Jesus but was sent out to tell his story, which amazed all who heard.
Three lost souls encountered Jesus and were forever changed. That is what love looks like!
What is your story? Have you met Jesus? What did Love do for you?